Seattle Art Museum recently provided an update on their plans for a $49 million renovation and expansion to the Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park.
Expansion plans call for a 7,000 square-foot new space in the southeast corner that includes a 2,650-square-foot gallery, community meeting room, offices, space for education programs, and an Asian art conservation studio.
Other work will be improvements to the 83-year-old building, including plumbing, electrical and climate-control systems updates. Seismic improvements to the entire structure are also in the works, as is a new art elevator. Improvement of ADA accessibility is also a big concern for the project.
Preservation is a part of the plan as well. The museum’s historic Art Deco façade will be maintained as the entrance.
The museum’s connection to the surrounding park will be enhanced thanks to significant use of glass and windows, a glass-enclosed lobby looking into the park, and new landscaping on the east side of building.
Construction would begin in fall 2017 and the museum hopes to reopen by 2019. LMN Architects will design the renovations and BNBuilders will be the general contractor & construction manager.
You can help the Asian Art Museum figure out the specifics at a series of community feedback events. Check out the schedule here.